[NATIVE AMERICAN] Plains Lance with Ermine and Horsehair Pendants

A Plains Lance with Metal Blade, Wooden Shaft, Ermine Skin, and Horsehair.

A substantial Plains lance with an elongated metal blade mounted on a straight wooden shaft. Broad through much of its length, the blade narrows toward a pointed tip and has small, opposed notches near its base. Closely wound binding reinforces the junction with the shaft, from which narrow ties suspend pale ermine skin and a long pendant of dark horsehair.

The blade retains a dark, irregularly oxidized surface, contrasting with the lighter wrapping beneath it. The pendant materials introduce a further contrast: pale fur and fine, flowing hair fall alongside the smooth brown shaft, emphasizing the lance’s length while enlivening its otherwise austere profile.

The combination of a prominent metal head and suspended ornament places the piece within the broader material vocabulary of Plains lances. Documented examples and historical models unite practical weapon forms with individualized arrangements of bindings, pendants, and surface decoration.

A compelling example of the form, distinguished by its broad blade and the restrained interplay of metal, wood, binding, fur, and hair.

Plains lances served as weapons of hunting and warfare, while certain examples also expressed a warrior’s standing, society affiliation, or personal spiritual experience. Their significance could extend beyond inflicting injury: lances were among the weapons used to count coup, demonstrating courage through close engagement with an adversary. Ornament on such objects could therefore carry meanings far more specific than decoration alone.